Position
Plant almond trees in full sun, where they will receive at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Allow at least 4 metres of space around each tree for future growth, good airflow, and sunlight penetration.
Size
Almond trees generally grow to approximately 4–6 metres high, with a similar spread, depending on the variety, rootstock, climate, and pruning.
Trees may begin producing a small crop from around 2–3 years after planting, with yields increasing as the tree matures. Good commercial-level production generally develops from around 5–7 years.
Soil Type
Almond trees are adaptable to a range of soil types but grow best in deep, fertile, well-drained soil. They can tolerate moderately chalky or alkaline soils, provided drainage is excellent. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soil, as almond roots are susceptible to root rot.
Superfrass (R25 per bag) is a natural, high-quality organic growth enhancer and pesticide, and Volcanic Rock Dust(R25 per bag), which contains more than 72 trace elements and minerals, can be added at planting.
Watering
Almond trees require regular watering while young and establishing, but their roots do not tolerate waterlogged soil.
Water deeply rather than giving frequent shallow watering, allowing the upper soil to begin drying between waterings. During hot, dry spring and summer weather, young trees may require a deep watering every 4–5 days, depending on the soil type and weather conditions. Established trees generally require less frequent watering.
Reduce watering during winter when the tree is dormant.
Mulching
All plants and trees benefit from mulch. A good layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds, and gradually add organic matter to the soil.
Use pine bark mulch around the tree, particularly during hot, dry weather.
It is essential to keep mulch approximately 5 cm away from the trunk. Mulch piled against the trunk retains moisture and may encourage rot, fungal disease, and pests.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release, nitrogen-rich berry/all-plant fertiliser every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they require.
Pruning
Prune almond trees during winter while they are dormant. Remove dead, damaged, diseased, or crossing branches and any growth that crowds the centre of the tree.
Young almond trees benefit from being trained to an open-centre or vase shape, allowing sunlight and air to penetrate the canopy. Once established, prune each year lightly to maintain the tree’s shape and encourage healthy fruiting wood.
Pests and Diseases
Almond trees may be affected by borers, aphids, mites, scale insects, and fungal diseases, particularly when trees are stressed or growing in poorly ventilated conditions.
Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM) Control will help prevent or treat. If you already have aphids, mites, or mildew, wash the tree with a strong stream of water. When dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control. Consistency is key.
Harvesting
Almond trees produce their beautiful blossoms in late winter to early spring, usually before or as the new leaves emerge. The flowers develop into green, velvety hulls containing the almond shell and kernel.
The nuts mature over several months and are ready to harvest when the outer green hull begins to dry, split open, and expose the shell inside.
harvesting generally takes place from February to March, although timing varies according to cultivar and climate.
Shake or pick the mature nuts from the tree, remove the outer hulls, and allow the almonds to dry thoroughly before storing.
Almond trees generally reach strong production from around 7–9 years of age and, with good care, can remain productive for several decades.
